The Effects of Acupuncture on Cancer-Related Fatigue: Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Jang A, Brown C, Lamoury G, Morgia M, Boyle F, Marr I, Clarke S, Back M, Oh B · Integrative Cancer Therapies · 2020 January

DOI 10.1177/1534735420949679

Objective

This review aims to assess the evidence of acupuncture for the treatment of CRF.

Conclusions

This article showcased the efficacy of acupuncture treatments for cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Patients reported to have higher motivation and energy levels. The results also showed lower stress levels and general improvements with quality of life.

Critical Appraisal

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Insights

Acupuncture has therapeutic potential in management of cancer-related fatigue for cancer survivors.

Given that CRF is a debilitating symptom among cancer survivors that has proven complex to manage, it is important to explore a wide range of treatment options. The findings of this systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that acupuncture has clinical applications in the management of CRF in conjunction with standard care. Investigating the physiological mechanisms underlying the effects of acupuncture on CRF with biomarkers including cytokines will provide important insights into future clinical applications. Acupuncture for cancer survivors with fatigue, particularly those receiving chemotherapy and radiation therapy that induce fatigue, can have a beneficial effect on fatigue and overall quality of life, when used as an adjunctive intervention to conventional cancer care. Therefore, it is recommended that acupuncture be incorporated into guidelines for the management of CRF in order to improve patient care.